Virtual Medical Centre

Triple-action anti-allergy eyedrops now available from pharmacies

1 September 2009
A treatment that doctors have been prescribing for years to fight allergy in eyes is now available over-the-counter at pharmacies. Zaditen (ketotifen) eye drops are used to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC),¹ a condition that involves inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the eye) due to an allergic reaction. It's the most common type of ocular (eye) allergy, affecting both adults and children.

What causes SAC?

SAC is caused by the body's response to certain substances in the air which trigger an allergic reaction in susceptible people. Often the triggering factor, known as an allergen, is pollen from plants and grasses.

What are the symptoms? 

When a person has SAC, they may experience red, itchy eyes that may be more teary or watery than usual, and, sometimes, swelling.

What happens during an allergic reaction? 

In an allergic reaction the body goes through three main phases.

Phase 1

When a susceptible person is exposed to an allergen such as grass pollen, the body produces substances called antibodies to help combat that allergen.² The name of the antibody is immunoglobulin E (IgE); this is what binds to the allergen. During this initial exposure to the allergen, the affected person doesn't have any symptoms and doesn't even know they are becoming sensitised.²

Phase 2

It's only when they are re-exposed to the allergen, such as the grass pollen, that the IgE antibodies latch on to specific cells that are released by the body's immune system. These cells are called mast cells, and when IgE latches onto them the body releases a selection of chemicals, including histamine, that trigger the symptoms we recognise as an allergic reaction. This process occurs within minutes of being exposed to the allergen. Antihistamine medicines help to relieve these symptoms.²

Phase 3

Within about six hours of exposure to the allergen, the mast cells and other cells from the immune system release chemicals that promote inflammation and tissue damage. Medicines that stop mast cells from having this effect help to prevent further inflammation and damage.³    

How can Zaditen help?

Zaditen is a powerful weapon in the fight against allergy eyes due to its triple action.^1,4,5

First, it acts as an antihistamine, so it relieves symptoms such itching.^1,6 It acts within minutes and protects against symptoms for up to 12 hours.^1,7

 

Pharmacy Medicine. Keep out of reach of children.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. USE ONLY AS DIRECTED. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST SEE YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL.

Zaditen eye drops are indicated for symptomatic short-term treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis in adults and children 3 years or older.